Forest Farm in Aberdeenshire Wins UK's Best Ice Cream Parlour 2026

Forest Farm, located just outside Aberdeen in Aberdeenshire, has been named the UK's best ice cream parlour for 2026 by the Ice Cream Alliance. This prestigious award recognizes the farm's excellence in producing gelato-style ice cream using fresh organic milk and high-quality ingredients. The announcement was made on July 6, 2026.

Founded in 1998 as Scotland's first organic dairy farm, Forest Farm was purchased by Anthony and Anne Willis in 1989. It features a small herd of organic cows and has become famous for its award-winning organic milk refill stations and gelateria. The farm's gelato is crafted in small batches in its purpose-built creamery and gelato kitchen, where bakers continually innovate with new flavour combinations.

With over 100 flavours available, Forest Farm's offerings include popular varieties such as cranachan, pistachio, rocky road, mint chocolate chip, hazelnut, specialty coffee, cookie dough, and Biscoff. Each flavour is made with more than 65 per cent organic milk and contains less cream and no egg, resulting in a cleaner and denser taste.

The farm attracts over 250,000 visitors annually, managed by Anne Willis, her sons, and a team of 30. In addition to their gelato, the farm offers specialty coffee and homemade cakes in a charming garden setting.

Forest Farm's achievement as Parlour of the Year is expected to elevate its profile further, as previous winners have experienced increased national attention and business growth. Catherine McNeil, Director of Operations at the Ice Cream Alliance, praised the farm as a glowing standard for ice cream in Scotland, while Nadia Miller from Nic UK, a sponsor of the award, congratulated Forest Farm on their well-deserved recognition.

The Ice Cream Alliance, the only trade association for the ice cream industry in the UK and Ireland, boasts a history of over 80 years. Its annual award aims to reward excellence and innovation in the industry.